Author: HughE Dillon

Chronicling Philadelphia

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Around Town With HughE

Night of Lights in Chestnut Hill Thru 10/9

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy held a VIP Preview party for Night of Lights last night. An innovative streetscape exhibition which officially kicks off tonight with the “Flip The Switch” at 8139 Germantown Avenue at 6:45pm.

Night of Lights will transform Chestnut Hill’s main street, Germantown Avenue, into a vibrant nightly streetscape exhibition of local histories and illuminated architecture, projecting archival images from the Conservancy’s and other
archives through seven storefront windows. Colorful lights will highlight often overlooked architectural features of neighboring historic buildings.

Storytellers will be stationed by each slideshow (one per projection site) during opening night to enhance the journey through Chestnut Hill’s rich narrative.

Last night’s VIP Reception was held at the Chestnut Hill Conservancy 8708 Germantown Ave. Friends, and supporters mingled with Conservancy staff and board members while enjoying light sips and bites to celebrate Night of Lights.

Founded in 1967 as the Chestnut Hill Historical Society, the Chestnut Hill Conservancy is an educational
center and advocate organization for the architecture, open space, and social history of Chestnut Hill and
surrounding communities.

Chrissy Clawson and Ashley Maass

I love Chestnut Hill, not only for it’s quaint atmosphere, but it’s shopping. Make sure you stop by Serendipity!!

Ellen Javers, Bill Webster and Deborah P.
Rep Tarik Khan and Lori Salganicoff, Executive Director Chestnut Hill Conservancy. It’s her last year and they are looking for a director now if you’d like to apply.
I ran into the Watkin’s family shopping at Weaver Way. Mr Watkin’s is a long time ChitChatter. – Thanks

TONIGHT: Everything kicks off with a “Flip the Switch” ceremony on opening night that will see representatives of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy and the other local
community leaders turn on the lights of the streetscape exhibition.

Christa Hackenberge and Joseph C. Kotarski Jr.

Following the opening ceremony, kickoff festivities will include storytellers at each of the seven
themed projection windows, music from various acts, including local jazz group Limited Time Only (LTO), MilkBoy co-founder Tommy Joyner’s Pep Rally, as well as entertainment from Maplewood Music Studios (including the Rich Rudin Trio and Ralph Salerno). An Ask the Archivists table provides more family-
friendly interactive activities — all concluding at 9 pm

As I mentioned Lori is leaving and they are conducting an executive director search. CLICK here for Info!!

See you tonight, or this weekend or anytime through October 9th. The weather is going to be fantastic.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Rizzieri Aveda School

Celebrates 100 Years of Beauty

Rizzieri, a game-changer in beauty culture in New Jersey and beyond, is excited to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Since launching their first cosmetology school in 1924, the Rizzieri family has established a benchmark for education, quality, and growth in the beauty industry, fostering the development of countless talented stylists and barbers across the country. The Rizzieri Aveda School offers training in cosmetology, skincare and nails.

Founded by Franco Cipriotti in 1924 and now helmed by his award-winning celebrity stylist grandson,

Frank Rizzieri, and Mayor Michael Mignogna of Voorhees Township

Frank Rizzieri, Rizzieri began as Maison de Paris in Philadelphia, later relocating to New Jersey and
becoming the revered Rizzieri Aveda School and Salons & Spas. Franco’s dedication and resilience laid a
strong foundation for the family business that continues today.

Meg Biondi DiFilippo, Shante Moore, Isabella Rizzieri, Danielle Menta, Victoria Sceia and Suzanne Moctezuma

On Sunday, September 15, 2024 the Rizzieri family commemorated the 100 year anniversary with a celebratory party at their Voorhees NJ school. Inviting current students and staff, alumni, partners, and friends Rizzieri Aveda School in Voorhees, NJ. Guests included Congressman Donald Norcross who presented a recognition from the state.

Madeline Cassey, Josslyn Kinner and Hannah Vernna
Ashley Voit and Karen Kline

Kelly King and Jenae Blocker were excited to see one of the models who featured hairstyles over the past 100 years.

Emily Sanders, Shara Harding, Chase Anderson and Alexa Tenabruso
Alexa Guarnieri, Tori Snow, Jessica Davis, Jillian Dawson and Chloe Fetterolf
Josie Zacamy, Adriana Prisco and Isabella Cifelli
Robbie Nelson, Tom DeGrandis and Karen Wilkin-Donachie
With a century of experience and innovation behind them, the Rizzieri family remains committed to continuing their legacy of excellence and looks forward to many more years of serving their community and advancing the beauty industry.
Frank Rizzieri and family thanked friends and family for their support over the years.

“As we celebrate 100 years of the Rizzieri legacy, I’m reminded of how our family’s passion for beauty and education has paved the way for countless professionals in this industry. My grandfather laid the foundation with a vision for excellence, and over the decades, we’ve continued to innovate, expand, and elevate beauty education. This centennial milestone honors not only our history but the incredible students, staff, and partners who have been part of this journey. We are excited for the next century of shaping the future of beauty.” – Frank Rizzieri

With a century of experience and innovation behind them, the Rizzieri family remains committed to continuing their legacy of excellence and looks forward to many more years of serving their community and advancing the beauty industry, with their 2 salons – Rizzieri Salon & Spa and school, Rizzieri Aveda School.

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Around Town With HughE

Photos: Zach Berman Book at Boyds

Chuck Meyers, Emily Berman, Sloane, Reid, Zach Berman, & Sharyn Berman

Zach Berman released his 2nd book “The Franchise: Philadelphia Eagles: A Curated History of the Eagles” on September 24th, and celebrated with a party for friends and family at Boyd‘s on the Mainline benefiting the Eagles Autism Foundation.

Bryna Berman and Elisa Shulick
Ilene Berman, Steve B., Jill Goldwater, Andy Goldwater
Sean Wolf, Holly B.Jacobs and Alex Shtraks
Julia & EJ Smith

Zach Berman covers the Philadelphia Eagles for PHLY, where he co-hosts a daily online show and leads the written coverage of the team.

Berman spent four seasons covering the Eagles for The Athletic and seven seasons as the Eagles beat writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer. He wrote the 2018 book, UNDERDOGS: The Philadelphia Eagles’ Emotional Road to Super Bowl Victory.

Boyds is a fourth generation, family-owned luxury retailer. Since 1938, providing clients with luxury fashion and experiences that aim to enhance our modern relevance while keeping traditions alive. They offer a diverse assortment of luxury women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and accessories, from over 250 designers across the world, driving connection to the evolving generations. Shop in their Center City store or stop by their Wayne store. Both have parking. It’s a great event space as well.

Melissa & Josh Strauss, Max & Raven Frankel
Corie Moskow, and Maggie Corrado
Bryna Berman, Robin Robbins, Debbie Schwab, and Susan Lipson
Susan Schwartz, and Gail Norry

Diehard Only Event: Book Signing and Live Q & A With Zach Berman at the PHLY Studio October 7. Info Here

Thanks to ChitChat Team photographer Talya Haily for shooting this event.

Socially yours, HughE

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Ball on The Square 2024

The Ball on the Square was held last night, September 26, 2024, in Center City. Hosted by the Friends of Rittenhouse Square and taking place in the heart of the Square. The Ball on the Square is an elegant autumn event where attendees wear black-tie attire to raise funds for the upkeep, beautification and preservation of Rittenhouse Square Park.

Dana Rosen, co-chair of tonight’s ball and Michael Zaslov

The 2024 Event Chairs Jay Minkoff, Dana Rosen

Honorary Co Chairs Wendy Rosen and Brian Emmons

Like many residents of Philadelphia, we eagerly anticipate this event as it elegantly kicks off the fall social season! Spotted were familiar faces who have attended supported the ball and it’s mission, last night like The Morton’s, the Brown’s, Former Mayor Michael Nutter, Laura LaRosa, Board President, June Armstrong, Executive Director, Nicole Cashman, Kristen Foote, Sabrina Tamburino Thorne, Lori Peruto, and a few new faces as well, Nikki Johnson-Alfano and her husband Gaetan; Phyllis Lacca and a few lovelies in this column.

It’s always nice to meet PhillyChitChat IG followers like, Eugene Chong and Irene Rogerson. Eugene is spinning at Vinyl tonight beginning at 10PM!!
Darryl Williams, The Franklin Institute’s Senior Vice President of Science and Education, and Debbie Brecher, Managing Director of Tandem Group
David Steerman, Lori Nicoletti Peruto and Mark Nicoletti

Beautiful decor as always be Evantine Design, and a delicious menu by Feast Your Eyes!!

Maestro Louis Scaglione, PYO, Amy Bergman, Happy Birthday 9/25, Monique Moore Pryor, Executive of the Free Library Foundation and Drew Bergman, OIC Philadelphia, celebrating a birthday Saturday 9/28!!

Cindy Caccuro and Adriana Weller

Juliia Green and Scott Brown (sorry this photo did not turn out well, should have taken two.) ANYWHO Julia is ALSO spinning at Vinyl Tonight until 10PM, stop by and give her a listen!!
Pascal and Maria Jabbour, Jane and Thomas Kang
Brian Emmons , co-chair of the Rittnhouse Ball is surrounded by Southern Land Company’s The Laurel Condo Crew, consisting of residents and staff.
Doc Parghi, Kate Slattery Parghi, Chandra Robinson and Thaddus Bartkowski
The Jefferson Health Team
Philly Chit Chat OG Crew; John Colabelli, Chuck Peruto, Alisa Frederico, Lauren Beloff Sembello, Natalie Foglietta, Nicole Cashman, Sabrina Tamburino Thorne and Nigel Richards (been photographing this crew my entire 17 years in the biz)
Ashley Piotrowski, SKINCREDIBLE Sal D’Angelo, D’Angelo‘s on 20th, Aleva Parker and Damenica Vince
Megan Nicoletti, who is co chair of the Soiree on the Square formerly known as the Young Friends Gala, tonight.
Tickets still available at $250

The name change came about as to not have an age barrier for those who still wanted to support the mission of the square – Preserve-Protect-Beautify.

Phyllis Lacca and Lindsay Alexander, Friends of Rittenhouse Square

PS Last night’s temperature was anything but autumn. The Ball used to be held in June and that was a guaranteed hot time, but last night rivaled a good summer night. Everyone took it in stride, especially since we were immersed in the beautifully designed Evantine tropical themed atmosphere. AND as you see the dance floor remained one of the hottest spots of the night with Starlight music performing.

Look for additional photos in the December issue of Philly Style Magazine and Philly Magazine. ALSO on PhillyChitChat Instagram. It’s interesting since the break between galas 2020 -2023, I gained 30ks plus IG followers, and many of them don’t realize my photos go in magazines. They’re excited to be feature on my IG. So I will be posting on the grid highlights of who was there, there.

Look forward to seeing you out and about.

Socially yours, HughE

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Photos: Best of Style

Thursday night September 19 the movers, shakers and scene stealers were spotted at the annual Philadelphia Style Magazine’s annual Best of Philly Style (BOS) Party held at the Kimmel Center.

Elaine Grasso and Jill Rizen
Noel Zayas, event planner to the stars and Bobby Glourioso

Give Noel a listen on the “Something to Say” Podcast Here

Denethia Durgin, AGM Vernick Fish and Shaun Miller, Red Tettermer

Dr Thanuja Hamilton hitting it big at the Black Jack Table, where proceeds went to “Donors Are Heroes”

Jimmy Contreras, Strategic Director JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Ali McLang, executive director of March of Dimes

John Colabelli, Media Executive٠ Philly Style Magazine @modernluxuryand Sabrina Tamburino Thorne
Mia Heller, Jen Groover, Linda LaRosa, Lindsay Furman Alexander and Sherri Davis

Lindsay Furman Alexander Director of Development- Friends of Rittenhouse Square Org. (a non-profit organization) is ready for the Ball on the Square on Thursday, and Soiree on the Square, ie the Young Friends, but don’t call it that, event on Friday. Tickets are still available for Friday’s event HERE

Julie Wiegand, founder of Jewelz Entertainment
Entrepreneur’s Kelvin Alexander and Justin Coleman Bake’n Bacon in South Philly looking great. They went from a food truck, to their dream a brick and mortar.
Thanuja Hamilton, Frances Wang, Frances moves from weekend mornings to weekend nights starting this Sunday on NBC10 and Sheila Hess
Drew Bergman, strategic director of OIC Philadelphia and Amy Bergman

This is not a drill!! For now until Wednesday, we’re offering an exclusive $100 Flash Sale on tickets to A Taste of OIC! You have the chance to secure your ticket at a special discounted price—hurry before time runs out! HERE

Lyndsay Rowland, Aida Sparta *Happy Birthday*, Greg Basile and Anne Nikolaus
Alana Farlow, Danielle Bloom and Colette Gabriel

I loved the entrance to the Philly Style Party this year; Drapes are a common element in traditional event design, serving important functions like reducing noise and ensuring privacy. However, their role can go beyond practicality. When integrated into a theme, drapes can elevate event spaces, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. – Created by Elizabeth Margaret Events.

John Whitehead, Strategic Partner at the Philadelphia Ballet and Michelle Miller, The Ground Coffee & Plants in Rittenhouse
Jessie Read and Alison Brady
Jermaine Jenkins, Strategic Partnership Design Philadelphia and Anaïs Cooper-Hackman Programming and Partnerships Director · Ray

Design Philadelphia kicks off it’s 10 day Design Festival 10/1/24 at Cherry Street pier with a free party.

Then be sure to explore the exhibits, discussions, activities, and parties happening throughout the festival at various locations across the city, including the house tours. Check the Schedule !!

Have a great day. Socially Hughe

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Around Town With HughE

Pre Party: Soirée on the Square

The Ball on the Square is returning this fall to Rittenhouse Square on September 26th. The Ball on the Square is the Friend’s largest fundraiser of the year and is a truly unique opportunity to enjoy an evening in with friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues in Rittenhouse, all while ensuring its continued care and maintenance of the beautiful square for the years to come.

Returning this year for the first time since 2019, The Soirée on the Square will be returning on September 27, the night after the Ball. The Soirée is an opportunity to enjoy an evening of cocktails, small bites, a band, and a DJ who will provide an exciting environment for dancing and socializing – all in support of the Friends of Rittenhouse Square. Last week supporters and committee members gathered at the Fitler Club to celebrate the upcoming fundraising effort. Tickets start at $250.00

Bruce Bohnri, Laura LaRosa, Board President of Friends of Rittenhouse Square, Erica Marting and June Armstrong, executive director of the Friends of Rittenhouse Square
Rachel Pritzker and Jennifer Rossiter
Chuck Peruto, Vince Peruto, Lindsay Furman-Alexander, Director of Development- Friends of Rittenhouse Square Org. (a non-profit organization), Silver Brahin and Pia Arellano
Megan Nicoletti Walsh, co-chair of 2024 Soiree on the Square and Mark Nicoletti, sponsor of Ball on the Square
Peter Watson, Elina Pargamanik and Sandra Hazeltine
DJ Smooth
Daniel Grobman, owner and chef Mike’s BBQ and Matt Cooke
Emre Kara and Bora Ozkan
Pex Arellano and Matt Fingerman, Senior Vice President and Team Leader for BNY Wealth

REMINDER: Surround yourself with like-minded people. Life is the ultimate team sport. Connection helps us to stay the course and this takes a village. – Pex Arellano

Taylor Schwartz, Sam Schwartz and Christina Mitchell

This cocktail-attire event is a unique and exciting way to spend a Friday night in Rittenhouse Square with all proceeds going towards supporting our mission. Hope to see you there!!

Socially yours, HughE

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Opening: Manayunk Welcome Center

Manayunk’s new headquarters are now open at 106 Grape Street

Recently the Manayunk Development Corporation celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting for the brand-new Manayunk Welcome Center and MDC’s new headquarters. 

A dream nine years in the making! The building was purchased in 2016 and after years of meetings, architects, renovations, etc the new welcome center is ready to welcome visitors and tourists to one of Philadelphia’s top main streets and commercial corridors. 

Janine Gasarowski, Caitlin Marsilii, Rhiannon Smith and Joan Deneberg

Guests, and dignataries gatehered last month to celebrate the center’s opening, and tour the new buidling. A brand new, four-story building home to all MDC and MSSD operations.

This property features a Manayunk Welcome Center and a retail incubator space on the ground floor, leasable office space on the second floor, the MDC office on the third floor, and a fourth-floor Bridge Meeting Room – a community meeting space.

outdoor space over looking picturesque Manayunk

Enzhao (John) Liu, Jeddiah Gallery and Andrew Herman, GRIT Construction
Emily Rogers, Christiane Marques and Adjane Barbosa

Brandon Pagano was on hand to greet guests
Anthony Moore and noted singer Julian King
Gwen McCauley, Executive Director, Manayunk Development Corporation

Gwen McCauley, Executive Director shares “The Welcome Center serves as the gateway and a link to our thriving business community, offering visitors a warm introduction and ensuring they connect with the best local services, restaurants and retail. By guiding residents, customers, newcomers and tourists, it not only enhances their experience but also drives economic growth, fosters local partnerships, and promotes the unique strengths of  Manayunk. It’s the starting point for building lasting relationships and a vibrant business district.”

Chris Maguire, Tubby Robot & Flat Rock Real Estate, MDC Board President

Chris Maquire, board president,  owner of Tubby Robot and Manayunk residence  is thrilled and said “The Manayunk Development Corporation’s new building at 106 Grape street has been a long term project that was supported by many hands, and I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to push it across the finish line in 2024. This building will serve not only as a permanent home for the MDC but also as an invaluable resource for shopkeepers, residents, and visitors alike. If something interesting is happening in Manayunk it’s almost certainly going to be channeled through these walls, and I can’t wait to see how the community will grow around this beautiful space.

The space will act as an entry point to the best of Manayunk, offering valuable resources, local insights, historical information, and exclusive Manayunk merchandise for purchase. The MDC collaborates with the MSSD to develop a clean, appealing, secure, and well-maintained business district, aiming to make Manayunk a competitive and desirable place to live, work, shop, dine, and enjoy leisure activities.

Thanks sponsors

The Manayunk Development Corporations (MDC) is a nonprofit corporation with both a primary business development mission and a cooperating community development mission. As a business development organization, MDC takes primary responsibility for the management, promotion, and positive business development of the Main Street business district.

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Yannick Conducts One Last Time

The summer season for the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Mann is almost over and Yannick Conducts One Last Time for the 2024 season there.

On September 18, don’t miss Yannick Conducts Mahler & Debussy, the final performance of The Philadelphia Orchestra’s 2024 residency at the Mann.

Under the direction of Music and Artistic Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, The Philadelphia Orchestra will perform an evening of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 and Claude Debussy’s La Mer, sure to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. 

This is the Mann’s last Orchestra and Picnic Night of the season. On Picnic Nights, patrons are invited to pack a picnic (chairs, blankets, food, drink, etc.) to enjoy on the Mann’s Great Lawn before and during the performance.

It sounds like an exciting finale to the summer season so don’t miss it!! I checked the weather, it’s going to be clear, and in the upper 60s when the concert begins at 8PM, but get there earlier to set up your picnic or enjoy delicious food from the Plaza Food Kiosks!! Ticketing Information!!

Have a great weekend. Socially Yours, HughE

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Pixs: The Good Gala – 2024

Jessica Blondel and Jamie Chenega

Let the Fall Social Season Begin: Last night I attended two events. Global Philadelphia’s 2024 World Heritage City Celebration at the Crystal Tea Room, which I will write about next week, and The Good Gala at Union Trust. Both events were Finley Catering spaces.

Established in Philadelphia in 2019, Friends for Good (FFG) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) social philanthropic organization bringing together young professionals with a commitment to community service.

Laila Imam, Dayna Sobanko and Michele Voltz

Supporting and assisting unhoused individuals around Philadelphia has been one of our important areas of focus since 2019. Providing access to food security, clothing and mental health assistance has been something we’ve been proud to provide our partners with – Friends for Good

Doug Foulkes of Bazaarvoice and Joanna Joye
Vanya Sax, Frank Criniti, DJ Smooth and Michael Wynne – Smooth Entertainment
Eric Visnov and Hannah Krupa, ChitChat “It Girl “One To Watch” 10 years ago, Hannah is now pursuing her dreams in NYC, but stopped by last nights gala to sing a few songs for the worthy cause.
Alexandra Hussain and Cassidy Sheppard
Vanya Sax doing his thing
Lisa Washington, Samaya Brown, Nyashe Felder and Teneasha Billingsley
Ali Volpe and Mina Massaro, MD.
Mike Giangiordano, Helen Liu Gerhad and Alexandira Bilder
Brooke Storms, and Peter Mastrogiacomo , his company Graysonky was a sponsor the event, Zuna and Scott Cohen, both couples are long time PhillyChitChat readers. It was so nice to be out and about and see everyone again.
The Fords: Janine, Wayne and Ryan. Ryan is the Director, Marketing and Operations at Warrington Country Club. I’ve photographed a few events at his scenic venue.
Friends for Good: The Good Gala was formal cocktail attire and attended by over 300 people.

If you didn’t see your photo here, you might see it in the November issue of Philly Style Magazine.

Have a great weekend. Follow me on IG for up to the minute social scenes and stories. Socially yours, HughE

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Save The Date & Did Tabu Sell

Here we are the last Friday of the unofficial end of Summer. It really went by fast, right? Before I set out on our weekend trip, I thought I’d post a few events, and news on the sale of a local LGBTplus bar to a group of philanthropic gentlemen who own two of the most popular water holes in the City, popular piano sing a long, dance bar Tavern on Camac, and UBar, where the bartenders are good listeners.

One of the exciting additions to happen to the Philly skyline is the lighting of City Hall. Out of all the iterations over the last generation, this is definitely the best one. All 4 sides are lit, usually in white, but on special occasions like this one honor Philadelphia police.

There’s a lot of exciting news coming to the little screen in the fall.

How awesome Fox 29 is bringing back the weekend edition of “Good Day Philadelphia.” The show was a staple on the Saturday and Sunday before the pandemic, with Bill Anderson, who is concentrating on his Fox29 show “The Pulse” now.

Taking the helm is reporter Shaynah Ferreira “It’s a new day and a new era here @fox29philly. I’m happy to announce my promotion as the Anchor of the Weekend Morning Edition of Good Day Philadelphia. ☀️☕️” Shaynah wrote on her IG. Joining her will be reporter Marcus Espinoza and zany weather reporter Drew Anderson.


Begins Saturday starting September 14th at 8am, and Sunday September 15th.

Save The Date: You’re going to want to attend the STAND UP FOR FREEDOM fundraiser in support of Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta for Auditor General, not only because he’s the right guy for the job, but it’s going to be a laugh a minute with Wanda Sykes, Connor King, and Gov Shapiro. I kinda had a feeling he wasn’t going to be the VP contender as he committed to this event before the announcement of Walz.

I saw this nugget on Reddit, have the owners of Tavern on Camac, and UBar bought bad boy Tabu It would be great to have a redo on that place and bring it back to it’s Equus glory of the 1980s, when I frequented the place.

Spring Garden Sunflower Festival is happening September 7 along Fairmount Ave.

Thanks for the memories Summer of 2024. One of my favorite finds was Ike’s Famous Crabcakes on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Enjoyed a few meals there, this time with Michael Newmuis and Kevin Lessard. Mike Toub is in this photo but as a vegan he did not partake.

Speaking of the Mike Toub, we celebrated our 30th anniversary of our first date 7/10/94 (Married 5/24/2014). It’s been a blast. I never imagined the life I have, and can’t imagine a life without him. Lucky me.

Socially yours, xoxo HughE